scope:

General

This AAMI Recommended Practice applies to any entity responsible for the management of medical equipment used as part of the routine care of patients, including health care organizations as a whole; divisions and departments within health care organizations; and outside vendors such as medical equipment manufacturers, shared service providers, and independent service organizations.

Medical equipment is an essential part of health care. Appropriate management of equipment maintenance is vital for ensuring that medical equipment remains safe and effective for its intended use, that equipment life is maximized, and that total lifetime costs are minimized. In addition, an equipment management program is required by accrediting and licensing agencies. Accrediting agencies include the Joint Commission, DNV Healthcare, and the American Osteopathic Association. Licensing agencies include the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, as well as state departments of health and other licensing bodies.

Inclusions This AAMI Recommended Practice specifies required characteristics for a management program designed to minimize certain risks associated with equipment that is used in a health care organization during routine care of patients. The document addresses the structure of such a program, the documentation that must be produced by the program, program staffing, and resources that should be allocated to those responsible for maintaining medical equipment. Definitions of terms and normative references are also included, as are notes and rationale that expand the provisions of the document.